100 yr Apple Tree Roots Make Toxin to Kill Nearby Trees?

[younggrasshopper]

I have heard that when an apple tree reaches approximately 100 years in age that the roots produce a spore or a toxin that kills the ground so that you can not plant another fruit bearing tree in that location again. Is this true and should I remove my old apple trees before this happens or impliment a fade out /plant new tree program?

Younggrasshopper

[Kisal]

I've never heard anything like that. It sounds like a myth to me. My apple tree is at least 65 or 70 years old, and all kinds of plants grow under it. It's a chore to keep the area cleared out!

[cynthia_h]

Please see

https://www.bernwodeplants.co.uk/oldesttree.htm

for verified reports of apple trees 180 years and older, both in Great Britain (Nottinghamshire) and the United States.

Keep those trees going!

Sounds like someone near you is trying to sell you young apple trees as against keeping the old ones alive and bearing fruit. Is this possible?

Cynthia H.
USDA Zone 9, Sunset Zone 17

[brendalee]

Does anyone know a variety of apple trees that will grow in South Georgia? I live about 30 miles from Tallahassee, Florida.

[damethod]

Yes. There are 3 or 4 that will grow in your area. Here is a link to a site that sells them. Lots of great information on each tree!

https://www.willisorchards.com/